Thrombophlebitis

Thrombophlebitis is inflammation in a vein in an area where a blood clot has formed. Often the term thrombophlebitis is shortened to "phlebitis."

There are two types of phlebitis.

Superficial phlebitis occurs when a blood clot and inflammation develop in a small vein near the surface of the skin. This type of phlebitis rarely causes a serious problem.

Deep vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot and inflammation are deep inside a vein in a leg, the lower abdomen (pelvis), or, rarely, the arm. It requires tests and treatment by a doctor.

By

Healthwise Staff

Primary Medical Reviewer

E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine

Specialist Medical Reviewer

David A. Szalay, MD - Vascular Surgery

Last Revised

February 1, 2012

eMedicineHealth Medical Reference from Healthwise

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.